The 2003 Merlot Brookman Vineyard (which saw about 40% new French oak) is superb. A strong case can be made that there is no better Merlot being made in Australia. It is a dense, thick, juicy effort offering hints of roasted coffee intertwined with berry fruit and chocolate. Medium to full-bodied, long, opulent, and silky, it should be enjoyed over the next 10+ years. Importer: Commonwealth Wine & Spirits Inc., Mansfield, MA; tel. (508) 328-6764

This is probably the best Merlot that I've had from the region. Aromas are fruit-sweet, with wide plum fruit and light caramel at the fore. There are green notes on the nose—fresh produce, and maybe some lima bean—but they are strangely appealing, and the wine boasts tremendous grip at midpalate. Finishes with dry wood and tealike tannins. ——D.T.(3/1/2005)—— 90